Orlando Science Schools will facilitate the participation of qualified 7th graders in the Duke TIP (Talent Identification Program). Duke TIP is a global leader in identifying academically talented students and providing them with opportunities to support their development.

The Duke TIP 7th Grade Talent Search helps

educators and families determine how advanced their students’ academic abilities truly are.Traditional testing often fails to measure the variation among many academically talented students who reach the upper limits of scoring on grade-level exams. Above-level testing at least two years above a student's current grade offers gifted students and their families a far better understanding of how the student compares to his or her gifted peers and what level of educational challenge is appropriate.

Students are identified based on standardized test scores achieved while attending elementary or middle school. As part of the talent search enrollment, they are invited to take either the ACT or the SAT college entrance exam as a seventh grader which allows them greater insight into their academic abilities. In addition, experts at Duke TIP have developed and compiled information to inspire academically talented young people to learn through exciting, stimulating and challenging educational opportunities to augment their capabilities.

Eligibility for enrollment is an honor and indicates outstanding intellectual potential. Enrollment begins August 1 of each year.

As part of the 7th Grade Talent Search, Duke TIP will register a student for either the ACT or the SAT. The test registration is included in the talent search enrollment fee. For a student already excelling at grade-specific tests, the knowledge and experience gained from taking an above-level test like the ACT or SAT is invaluable. Above-level testing provides helpful insight into a student's academic abilities and allows effective planning for high school and beyond. Additionally, these testing experiences give seventh graders the opportunity to preview the same test they will face during the college admissions process.

Special award ceremonies are held to bring families together so they can celebrate the outstanding achievement of 7th Grade Talent Search participants. Students qualify for recognition ceremonies based on ACT and SAT scores. Qualifying students receive invitations in April. Students who test after March do not attend ceremonies; their awards are mailed in August.

Participant Benefits

Many resources and opportunities are available to 7th Grade Talent Search participants. Once an enrollment is processed at Duke TIP, participants have access to several exciting benefits: